The team behind the contentious Grand Theft Auto 6 parody, Grand Taking Ages, has reemerged with a Steam page following its removal from the PlayStation Store by Sony. This parody management simulator, where players manage a game development studio, initially stirred controversy for its use of AI-generated art and satirical elements poking fun at the anticipation surrounding Rockstar's GTA 6.
Last month, Grand Taking Ages VI managed to appear on the PlayStation Store with a slated release date of May 2025, complete with a wishlist feature. However, Sony swiftly removed the game. Now, after making significant adjustments, the game has been greenlit for Steam. Developer Violarte assured IGN that the game underwent a thorough review process, resulting in its approval for Steam with a new trailer and updated screenshots emphasizing its parody nature.
Key changes include removing the "VI" from the title, revamping the logo, descriptions, and overall presentation to differentiate Grand Taking Ages from GTA 6. While the AI-generated art has been modified, it still echoes the style of Rockstar’s iconic imagery. Violarte disclosed on the Steam page the use of AI for voiceovers, which is evident in the game's trailer.
The new Steam page description humorously states:
Coming Soon Since Forever! Start your game dev journey in mom's garage! Battle angry fans, dodge ruthless journalists, and perfect the art of "creative" deadlines. Survive on pizza and energy drinks while building your dream studio into... a slightly better garage!
Violarte engaged with Valve before submitting the game, ensuring compliance with their guidelines, a different approach from their initial dealings with Sony. They cite other successful parodies like Grand Theft Hamlet to argue for the protection of parody works.
Grand Taking Ages is back, this time on Steam.
Despite its Steam approval, Violarte is keen to return to the PlayStation Store. They have reached out to Sony, highlighting the adjustments that convinced Valve, and expressing confidence that these changes will resolve any issues with Sony.
Grand Taking Ages VI's brief stint on the PlayStation Store raised questions about Sony's curation process. In contrast, Steam's more permissive approach is well-known, with many games, including those using generative AI, finding a home there.
Meanwhile, the highly anticipated GTA 6 is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S in the fall of 2025.
Grand Taking Ages uses generative AI for its trailer voice over.
